Dear Heloise: With our busy lives, we all have a number of things to do. After work, it seems I always have someplace I need to be or something I need to do. This often meant that occasionally, I’d forget something. I solved the problem by placing the dry cleaning in the passenger’s seat the night before so that I can drop it off at the cleaners. If I borrowed anything, I’d put it in my car so I’d remember to return it after work the next day. A list of groceries or other things I needed to pick up on the way home from work was taped to the steering wheel.

It worked so well that my husband started to do the same thing. Now he never forgets his appointment book or to bring doughnuts to a sales meeting.

— Grace and Bill P., Cape Coral, Florida

Grace and Bill, this is a habit I got into many years ago. The night before I went somewhere, I put my appointment book, important paperwork, and other items in my car the night before. This way, I rarely forgot anything!

— Heloise

SIMPLE CHORES

Dear Heloise: When I was growing up, my mother wouldn’t let me do any chores around the house. I’m talking about cooking a meal, doing laundry, or ironing a shirt. When I went to college, I had to learn several things that my roommate was kind enough to show me.

Please tell the parents who read your column to take the time to teach their sons how to sew, cook, and properly clean a home. My roommate was shocked when he learned that I only washed my sheets once a month. Now I do it every week, and I love my clean sheets, towels and clothes.

My mother meant well, but she didn’t prepare me to live on my own. I guess she thought I’d always live at home or would have a wife who’d do it all for me.

— Frank R., in Vermont

Frank, I agree! Men need to know how to do these simple chores, just like women need to know more about cars, home-building and finances.

— Heloise

CHILDREN AND ONIONS

Dear Heloise: When my children were little, I figured out a way to sneak the onion flavor in. Use a whole onion to flavor your sauces and casseroles, and pull it out before serving! Voila, flavor added!

My children are now in their 40s, and both are excellent cooks (much more creative and daring than I am). They like to use onions, garlic and flavorings generously!

— Jody Distefano, Via Email

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Dear Readers: First, let me thank each and every one of you who read my column and all the wonderful hints you’ve sent us here at Heloise Central. We enjoyed all the communications we received this year.

As a new year dawns, let’s remember that we all belong to the family of man. We need our families and friends. Without them, we live only half a life, so take care of the relationships that are near and dear to your heart.

Best wishes to all of you in 2025!

— Heloise

Send a great hint to Heloise@Heloise.com.